Table of contents for September - October 2017 in You and Your Wedding

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1 BERRY BEAUTIFUL Be on your wedding day and embrace the latest beauty trend for brides – berry lips 2 WHITE OUT Guests wearing white: is it still such a big deal? We argue it out 3 OFF-THE-SHOULDER GOWNS Show some skin the elegant way with our edit of the prettiest dresses around 4 BOTTOMS UP From beverage boats to vintage bar carts, we’ve rounded up the hottest drinks trends – cheers! 5 HEAVENLY HONEYMOONS UNDER £3500 We’ve scoured the globe for the best post-wedding getaways Sign up for our NEWSLETTER full of the LATEST WEDDING NEWS and TRENDS at youandyourwedding.co.uk #FASHION CUPBOARDFRIDAY Join us on Facebook Live every Friday lunchtime for a behind-the-scenes look at Y&YW HQ…

Tradition vs text While I know it’s meant to be bad luck to see the groom on the morning of the wedding, is it OK to text him? I know it’s silly, but what do people do? I’ve also been thinking of sending him a card via the best man, which says how excited I am, and a present. Anna Y&YW says: You’re right; traditionally, it has always been considered bad luck for a couple to see each other on the morning of the wedding, but it’s 2017, and we say do whatever you want! If you want to text each other, don’t let superstition stop you. You’re getting married to the man you love – texting on the morning of your wedding won’t change that. We like the idea…

“ARE YOU TRULY SURE YOU WANT TO MARRY THE SORT OF MAN WHO CAN’T ORDER HIMSELF A SUIT HE LOVES?” NO! JEREMY DRIVER IS GETTING MARRIED IN NOVEMBER 2017.HE SAYS: “Imagine your dream wedding: the perfect venue, amazing weather, and everyone you love having a great time sharing your day with you. Now imagine that scene, but with you forced, with no say in the matter, to wear a wedding dress SLFNHG RXW Ey yRXU fiDQFp› ,I WKDW WKRXJKW WHUULfiHV yRX› yRX·UH FORVH WR XQGHUVWDQGLQJ why I believe that grooms should be solely in charge of what they want to wear on their wedding day. Most men I know have no idea or understanding of the mysteries RI ZRPHQ·V FORWKLQJ ² , VWURQJOy VXVSHFW WKH VDPH LV WUXH RI PRVW…

“Dorsett Shepherds Bush is uber elegant and provided a great Art Deco vibe” Peta Hunt, editor-at-large THE DRESSES We chose floor-length satin gowns with flowing skirts that looked amazing with lots of movement THE THEME This shoot was all about high glamour with a boho twist in our cool location THE ACCESSORIES Touches of sparkle and statement gold jewellery finished the look perfectly SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team shot on location at Dorsett Shepherds Bush in London. Modern British architecture meets elegant interiors to create a warm but sophisticated atmosphere. Featuring restaurants, a gym and a spa (and only five minutes walk from the Tube), it’s stylish choice for couples seeking a chic hotel for their city wedding. dorsetthotels.com/unitedkingdom/london/ shepherdsbush…

Whether you’re a lover of lilac or prefer vivid violet tones, a procession of purple maids adds an extra touch of elegance to your big day. It looks amazing next to lighter colours, is a great backdrop for funky accessories and is the perfect choice for brides who want to avoid pink. TOP TIP Bold costume jewellery is a fabulous way to bring some individual style to your maids’ look…

CALM & COLLECTED As big fans of aromatherapy, we were thrilled to learn about Elemis’ Life Elixirs collection, and its five emotional aromatics (calm, clarity, fortitude, embrace and sleep) designed to bring you back to yourself, no matter how anxious wedmin may make you. Splash out on the bath and shower elixir (£55), light the delightfully scented candle (£36) and roll on the perfume oil (£28) to de-stress your mind and restore your inner peace. COCO LOCO We’ve been sipping on coconut water for years, and now the wonder ingredient has made its way into the world of beauty products. Marc Jacobs’ latest offering, the Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter, £32, is a luminous gel cream that lights up your complexion for an Instagramworthy glow – the coconut extracts help…

Guest list gripes, transport worries and last-minute dress wobbles… it’s no wonder that so many QHDUOyZHGV fiQG WKHPVHOYHV WRVVLQJ and turning at night. But, getting less than your eight hours of slumber can mean puffy eyes, dark circles, bad skin and no energy. We tested out the latest sleep apps to help you DYRLG yDZQLQJ WKURXJK yRXU YRZV› THE APP Pzizz, free, App Store and Google Play THE ISSUE For a couple of months, I started waking up at 4am, unable to get back to sleep. During the day, I was dizzy with tiredness, but no matter how exhausted I got, I was still jolting awake like clockwork in the early hours. That was until I tried Pzizz. THE RESULTS Now, each night, the app lulls me to sleep through a…

INTO THE UNKNOWN Imagine not knowing where you’re jetting off on honeymoon until you arrive at the airport! Well, if that idea doesn’t fill you with dread, you’ll love Wix Squared’s Mystery Travel concept, where you provide your loves, likes and dislikes and the rest will be done for you, wixsquared.com 3 of the best HONEYMOON SUNGLASSES Y&YW WANDERLUST  can many experiences that are more romantic than winding your way from Porto to the Douro Valley on board a vintage train. With Six Senses Douro Valley, you can hop on to The Presidential for a three-night food and wine tour of this stunning region. A three-night all-inclusive package costs from €5000pp (approx. £4356) and is bookable on selected dates in October, sixsenses.com Monkey BUSINESS Luxury hotel brand One&Only is branching…

CHEVAL RESIDENCES, London WHERE Our gorgeous apartment in Knightsbridge was just minutes from Harrods and the endless shopping delights of Brompton Road. You won’t be short of places to wine and dine, either – the area is packed with amazing eateries, including Ladurée – a favourite for a hot chocolate and a macaron (or three). WHY Cheval Residences has apartments all over the city, and the quality of the accommodation is fabulous. The Knightsbridge abode, on a quiet side street, has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large, comfortable lounge, fully equipped kitchen, and WKH FRPfiHVW EHG ZH YH WULHG · in ages. Fluffy robes, The White Company products and modern touches make it truly relaxing. Perfect for a weekend of dress shopping, or for a romantic mini-break in a fantastic…

KAREN CINNAMON Karen is the founder and editor of Smashing The Glass, the world’s biggest Jewish wedding blog. This issue, Karen explains the ketubah (the Jewish wedding contract) and how to create one yourself, in our Seal the Deal feature (p122) . ELLA MILLS Award-winning cookery author and entrepreneur Ella Mills (AKA 'HOLFLRXVOy (OOD› fiOOHG XV LQ RQ KHU gift-list essentials (p129). With a passion for good, nourishing food at the core of her brand, Ella’s list is a fabulous mix of functional and fashionable gifts that you’ll love. CAROLINE KHOO Sweet-treat creator Caroline established Nectar and Stone with the dream of telling a story about eating with style. In our Good Spirits feature (p117) , we reveal some of her coolest cocktail recipes from her debut book I’m Just…

“The semi-domed conservatory provided plenty of soft, natural light and a romantic setting for the reception tables” Elegant and glamorous; two words that many brides would love to hear their guests use to describe their wedding, but words that also sound rather expensive to achieve. This reception shoot, however, shows that you can have the best of both worlds – a timeless theme that will wow your guests, as well as money left in the budget to feed them. “I’m very drawn to the challenge of helping couples create a chic, stylish and luxe aesthetic without breaking the bank,” says Edmina Johnson of Aleeka Events, the stylist behind this dreamy big-day look. “Selecting affordable and tasteful pieces, discussing your budget with your suppliers and RSWLQJ IRU LQH[SHQVLYH› yHW JRUJHRXV flRUDOV…

Creating a gift list should be one of the best parts of your wedding experience, but with so much WR FKRRVH IURP› LW·V HDVy WR fiQG yourself with more questions than you started with. What kind of gifts do you want? Which provider to go with? Is it OK to ask for money towards your honeymoon? How do you pick gifts that mean everyone who wants to contribute can, regardless of budget? Thankfully, The Wedding Shop is here to help. With over 27 years’ experience in creating couples’ dream gift lists, it offers a huge range of products, from well-known brands to undiscovered gems, plus personalised cash funds and experiences, all in one place. It has four showrooms across the country, so you can see your choices in person and…

THE COUPLE Katy & Edward Katy Johnson, 30, and Edward Rice, 37, held their ceremony and reception at Castello Marchione, Puglia, Italy Katy and Edward’s relationship has seen them travel to some of the world’s most spectacular places, from Dubai, to Hong Kong to Thailand. But it was breathtakingly beautiful Puglia that they chose as the backdrop for their big day. “Since childhood, I wanted a wedding in Italy, where my grandmother was from,” says Katy. “The wedding of my dreams took place in a venue with archways and a staircase, and was whitewashed, or light in colour.” With this in mind, Castello 0DUFKLRQH fiW WKH ELOO SHUIHFWOy› “Even seeing it in the distance when we viewed it gave me goosebumps,” Katy says. “As we stepped out of the car…

SO HOT! ELEGANT INFLATABLES Balloons are making a return, but there’s nothing children’s party about these – we’re talking chic helium beauties. Try bubblegumballoons.co.uk MULTIPLE MEMORIES Couples are photographed 3000 times on average during w-day, says new research* – and that’s just by their guests. Get ready for your close-up! MAID PRESENT SHOPPING All taken care of thanks to this typography print. A sure-fire hit. £7.50, Notonthehighstreet.com SO NOT! SUNLIGHT Pennsylvania Castle has launched a twilight wedding experience, which includes a candlelit ceremony. Much more flattering than harsh sun, thepenn.co.uk AWKWARD SILENCES Meet Rachel Fay, the UK’s first professional introducer, who helps guests get to know each other, ensuring a good atmosphere, rachelfay.co.uk TRAVEL-AVERSE GUESTS Don’t feel obliged to keep it local – guests are willing to travel 1163 miles…

18 MONTHS TO GO Agree on a budget Draft a rough guest list so you know what size of venue to look for Decide whether you would prefer a civil or religious wedding ceremony and what type of venue you want View and book your venue Book your church and registrar/other celebrant Finalise your guest list Invest in wedding insurance Book your photographer and videographer 12 MONTHS TO GO Choose your bridesmaids, best man and ushers Send out your save the dates Book transport, if you need it Book your entertainment If you need to hire caterers, book them and discuss the menu options Start dress shopping Start bridesmaid dress shopping Book your hair and make-up artist, if you're having them NINE MONTHS TO GO Book your florist Book your…

“FOR SOME COUPLES, GUESTS WEARING WHITE IS A NO-NO” One of the best things about your wedding? This is a rare day when you’ll be solely surrounded by the people you care about. (Oh, and Great Uncle James, whom your parents insisted you invite, plus that mouth-breathing colleague you couldn’t exclude; but let’s forget about them.) They’re there to celebrate with you, showing their love and support. That doesn’t mean, however, that their behaviour will be entirely perfect. It’s unintentional on your loved ones’ part, but there are some typical wedding-guest behaviours that could end up raising your stress levels. But fear not! We’ve got plan-ahead solutions to the most common annoyances, so you can head them off and start married life with a smile. THE WHITE WEARERS The debate…

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PRAGUE: the cultural city break Features editor Hannah Davies enjoyed art, architecture and amazing food in the historical Czech capital of Prague Where to stay Prague s Malá Strana location. It’s away from the crowds, but still within easy walking distance of the key sights. And given that this is the city’s oldest quarter, it’s a delightful place to explore in itself. On a sunny day, Kampa Park is a lovely spot. If you’re a fan of contemporary art, head to Museum Kampa. Housed on the site of a 14th-century monastery, the hotel combines sleek contemporary styling with historical features, to richly atmospheric effect. During a visit to the spa, we were amazed to see the remains of a Gothic chapel EHQHDWK WKH JODVV flRRU› 2XU PDVVDJHV ZHUH simply blissful…

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“I love the clean lines and subtle embellishment of this dress by Watters” PETA HUNT, EDITOR-AT-LARGE ON THE COVER GOWN, £4590, WATTERS. COMB, £283, STEPHANIE BROWNE AUSTRALIA AT LIBERTY IN LOVE. NECKLACE, FROM £50, LOVEROCKS. RING, £1750, LE VIAN AT ERNEST JONES. BOUQUET, POA, WILDABOUT FLOWERS. PHOTOGRAPHS BY DONJA PITSCH. STYLING BY PETA HUNT, ASSISTED BY MOLLY COUGHLAN. FASHION INTERN: ELEANOR DAVIES. HAIR BY LOU LEAVES USING BUMBLE AND BUMBLE AND GHD. MAKE-UP BY NATHALIE ELENI USING BY TERRY AND ALUMIERMD…

“The bouquet was an elegant abundance of freesia volantes, nigellas, Tibet and spray roses and foliage” THE LITTLE DETAILS Sometimes it’s the simplest looks that require the most thought when it comes to choosing décor. For this timeless theme, every tiny detail from the grey napkins and cotton table runner, which added texture, to the antique gold and crystal candlesticks with tapered candles, which provided the soft lighting, was carefully considered. BRIDAL STYLE “The model wore a beautiful silk bespoke gown by Lucy Martin Bridal that really embodied the elegant style,” says Edmina. “A delicate cathedral-length veil from Liberty in Love added drama.” THE VENUE A classic theme can work in all PDQQHU RI YHQXHV ZLWK OLJKW-fiOOHG spaces, but the team behind this look went down a traditional route and…

THE COUPLE Lauren & Tim Lauren Awcock, 27, and Tim Kemp, 34, held their ceremony and reception at Syon Park, West London “I TOLD TIM FROM THE MOMENT WE STARTED PLANNING THAT I WAS GOING TO BLOW THE BUDGET ON FLOWERS” Here’s the perfect lesson in how to do a fairy-tale wedding the grown-up way. Lauren and Tim created a truly modern fantasy with their enchanted forest-meets- Alice in Wonderland event in a spectacular setting. The couple had initially wanted a contemporary cool city venue, but were won over by historic Syon Park’s grandeur, plus the stunning conservatory and gardens. Lauren had a clear vision of how to put their personal stamp on the space: blooms and more blooms. “I told Tim from the moment we started planning that I…

Cocktails are a hen-party staple for good reason. To add a cool twist, think beyond the classics. Whether you plan to serve up a pre-party treat before you head out on the town, or as a lovely way to begin an entirely-at-home hen, we’ve found some heavenly recipes. These delicious cocktails are easy to make, and look and taste fabulous. Put them out on a table (or drinks trolley) for when guests arrive. Or make them together with your hens as part of your celebration! It’s the sort of thoughtful touch people will remember. Pink sparkle Makes one drink INGREDIENTS • 40ml (1.3fl oz) pink lemonade • 110ml (3.7fl oz) champagne or sparkling equivalent • 4 fresh raspberries METHOD 1. Fill three-quarters of a champagne flute with pink lemonade. 2.…

This autumn, the UK’s biggest and best-loved wedding show is returning to four fantastic locations. From September, you and the girls can enjoy the perfect day out at The National Wedding Show, as you take in PRXQWDLQV RI ZHG-VSLUDWLRQ DQG IXQ-fiOOHG HYHQWV› Hundreds of wedding suppliers will be in attendance, giving you the chance to mingle, make connections and get ahead with planning yRXU ELJ GDy› <RX·OO PHHW PXVLFLDQV› flRULVWV› make-up artists, designers and many more, all of whom will be happy to discuss exactly what you’re looking for and help you work out your plans. As well as suppliers, the show is packed with workshops, live experts and information on all the latest trends, with top features including the Catwalk Show, The Inspiration Lab (for wedding DIY tips), The…

“We bought foliage (eucalyptus and ivy) wholesale from a local nursery and used it to decorate the venue instead of flowers. It looked and smelled incredible, and we were able to keep it at home after it dried.” Africa and Jermel “Details that are aimed at your guests (individual messages on their place settings, badges or bespoke colouring-in books for kids) are often the least expensive (or even free) things to do, and your guests will be so touched by them.” ZEBA AND NICK “We had a monogram made of our surname initials. It’s not expensive and we used it throughout the decoration details to bring it all together.” JOANNA AND VISHAL “We had the ceremony and reception in one place to avoid expenditure on cars and separate venue fees.”…

STYLING TIP For an effortlessly polished look, team rich red lips with glossy waves STYLING TIP Satin dresses are timeless – add chic accessories to update the classic look…

“I just adored the idea of an urban garden party” Peta Hunt, editor-at-large THE DRESSES We looked for gowns with opulent layered skirts of tulle and organza to create a magical bridal style THE THEME Dreamy romance in a rich garden paradise THE ACCESSORIES We combined clean shapes with traditional tiaras and veils to give the classic accessories a modern update SPECIAL THANKS The fashion team shot on location at Clifton Nurseries, London. Hidden in the heart of Maida Vale, this tranquil oasis is a stunning setting for a truly memorable reception. Home to picturesque glasshouses, the gardens are a haven of fragrant flowers and lush greenery that create a romantic and idyllic destination for a wedding in the capital. clifton.co.uk…

Nestled between shady olive groves and stunning azure seas, the MarBella Corfu beach resort offers rich culture, amazing cuisine and plenty of opportunity to kick back and relax. Whether you feel like exploring the island’s fascinating heritage with trips to local villages and museums, or simply want to de-stress on the beach while gazing out over the Ionian Sea, it’s the ideal place for a luxurious mini-break whatever your preferred style of travel. LET’S EXPLORE Take a wander through the lush landscaped gardens and you’ll soon stumble upon the hotel’s sandy, private beach. Here you can sit back and work on your tan while you enjoy drinks and snacks, or try out some water sport adventures such as sea kayaking, if you’re feeling energetic. If you prefer taking a dip…